I am a 21 year old atheist from Wales. I'm new to the 'online community' as it were, so apologies in advance for any transgressions of internet conventions which I may commit. I have had bad things about this forum from atheist friends, but am hoping they are wrong:)

Internet conversations are basically the same as face-to-face conversations. Common courtesy still means something, as does listening and understanding the other person(s) prior to rendering feed-back.

Probably the best piece of information I could give you though, is to read the forum rules prior to posting, and read the OP (opening post) to each thread prior to posting in that thread.

As an aside - Most people who have a hard time here are usually those who couldn't adhere to forum rules (maybe those frimds of yours???).

Thanks a lot for replying on this post. As you are a moderator, I am aware that your time is valuable, and therefore appreciate you taking some of said time in order to reply to me. I will read the forum rules before posting again. On the creation/materialism debate in which I posted, I will attempt to post a rebuttal to you within 24 hours, as I will first acquaint myself with the forum rules before going to work, and will post tomorrow.
Thanks again

Post as you can, there is no hurry. It is most important realize what you know, what you think you know, what you don't know, and that you can ALWAYS learn (I mean that for all of us, as I was using "YOU" as a generic term). Facts are not opinions, and opinions are not facts!

I am a 21 year old atheist from Wales. I'm new to the 'online community' as it were, so apologies in advance for any transgressions of internet conventions which I may commit. I have had bad things about this forum from atheist friends, but am hoping they are wrong:)

Welcome to the board. I hope you do well here.

If you present your arguments without antagonism or insults then you should be fine. Some of your persuasion have been here for a long time.

Many thanks for the welcome, everyone, much appreciated:). I assure you that I will conduct myself in a dignified manner, and will not resort to antagonism or insults. I know how these debates can be reduced to so-called 'flame wars', but I hope that can be avoided.